Oldest ever Miss Universe Australia contestant 'pushing 40' after age restrictions on beauty pageant were lifted: 'I've taken care of myself'

Miss Universe Australia is undergoing a major shakeup. 

The oldest contestant in the beauty pageant's history has signed up after age restrictions were lifted.

Christina Dietze, 38, is hoping to land the crown like her hero, Miss Universe Australia 2004 Jennifer Hawkins, despite being described as 'pushing 40'.

The model and fashion designer, who hails from South Yarra, Victoria, says that she's kept herself in good nick and deserves a shot at the title. 

'I've taken care of myself and I've been in the modelling industry for a while now,' she told the Herald Sun. 

'I feel once we get to our 30s we have lived through some tougher experiences in life and we grow. I have something to share and give back,' she added. 

Christina says she has been 'doing Pilates every day' in preparation. 

While previous contestants could be aged from 18 to 28 years only, from 2023 onwards, women over 28 have been allowed to enter. 

Restrictions around marital status have also been lifted, meaning married and divorced women, as well as mothers, can enter. 

Despite the inclusive rule change, last year's winner was just 21.  

Lexie Brant, an occupational therapy student and model from Brisbane, took out the title of Miss Universe Australia 2025 in a glamorous ceremony held in Perth.

The blonde beauty wowed judges as she beat out 28 other hopefuls from across the country to claim the crown, earning her place as the nation's representative at the international Miss Universe competition.

Brant was handed the crown by outgoing titleholder Zoe Creed, who competed in 2024's global finals in Mexico.

Wearing a glittering silver gown and radiant smile, Lexie looked every bit the winner as she took centre stage during the highly anticipated finale.

Ivy Prempeh was named first runner-up, while Cara Mooney, Bianca Black and Ash Donner rounded out the prestigious top five. 

Finalists also included Nadia Delis, Georgia Dewstow-Smith, Chloe Hardy and Asha Cooper, who all delivered standout performances throughout the competition.

Speaking to Gold Coast Magazine, Brant, now 22, revealed her decision to enter the national pageant came from a desire to step outside her comfort zone and embrace a new personal challenge.

'For me, entering Miss Universe Australia was about doing something original and intentionally outside my comfort zone,' she explained.

The stunner explained that she was 'the quiet girl' growing up and tended to watch life go by 'from the sidelines.'  

Lexie joined a long list of Aussie beauty queens who've gone on to forge careers in fashion.

These models include Laura Dundovic, Erin McNaught, Monika Radulovic and Maria Thattil.